DSLRs have great looking video. But, and I don't know this for a fact, I think they would not handle this application well. When a production company uses a DSLR they are doing takes and the camera gets to rest in-between. I think the game might be too long. Autofocus is another issue. Pro movie makers buy the special cinematography lenses that facilitate manual focus pulling.

Chris, I don't have any personal experience with these and the most recent Consumer Reports tests were in the December 2010 issue. For a HD recorder in your price range they recommended the JVC GZ-HM550.

Thanks John. I don't have any personal experience either. I found a Canon that was on Apples compatibility list. The price is right and people seem to like it. I will check this one out next, or at least it's most recent iteration.

No, the image quality is outstanding. But focusing is difficult at best, and the ergonomics of handholding is really bad.

There are many third party companies that make an array of devices to overcome these issues, but none of them are practical nor priced for consumers.

Shooting sports is pretty much the most demanding task you can ask of a videographer. It's fast moving and unpredictable. Handicapping yourself with a camera that's difficult to focus and hold just doesn't make sense.